Abduction
As a Noun
- The act of forcibly taking someone away, often against their will.
- In anatomy, the movement of a limb away from the body’s center.
- In logic or reasoning, forming a hypothesis based on observations (less common).
As Other Form
- Abduct (Verb): To take someone away forcefully or unlawfully.
- Abductor (Noun): A person who kidnaps someone or a muscle responsible for moving a limb away from the body.
Word History
The word abduction comes from the Latin abducere, meaning “to lead away,” from ab- (away) and ducere (to lead). It originally referred to the act of taking someone or something away and later became commonly associated with kidnapping.
Examples
- The police are investigating the abduction of the missing child.
- The abduction of the arm occurs when you lift it sideways.
- In mystery novels, abduction is often a key plot element.
Synonyms
Kidnapping, capture, seizure, taking, snatching
Related Words
Escape, disappearance, forceful removal, coercion
Antonyms
Release, return, freedom, restoration
